The courses align with the New Mexico Content Standards, Benchmarks and Performance Standards for English Language Arts. English/Language Arts I Grade: 9 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: 8th Grade English In English/Language Arts I, students begin developing college level skills in the use and interpretation of language to better understand themselves and their world. Students read and analyze a wide variety of World Literature, including novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poems. Reading instruction centers not on mere comprehension, but focuses on building higher level thinking skills to evaluate the literary techniques of the author and interpret the themes of the work. Students learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read and apply these in analysis. Teachers model writing strategies that students apply in their work, centering on the development and mastery of focus and coherence, voice, conventions, depth of thought, and conventions. Students compose college level analytical papers using appropriate formatting and documentation. Students find the tools to express their ideas through vertically aligned vocabulary development stressing mastery of Greek and Latin roots. Students learn to view art and other visual representations as a compliment to the written word and determine an image’s connection with the themes of the text. Students develop speaking skills to express their ideas clearly and effectively. Students refine their listening skills to better participate in lecture, classroom discussion, and cooperative group activities. English/Language Arts II Grade: 10 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: English I In English/Language Arts II students continue developing college level skills in the use and interpretation of language to better understand themselves and their world. Students read and analyze a wide variety of World Literature, including novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poems. Reading instruction centers not on mere comprehension, but focuses on building higher level thinking skills to evaluate the literary techniques of the author and interpret the themes of the work. Students learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read and apply these in analysis. Teachers model writing strategies that students apply in their work, centering on the development and mastery of focus and coherence, voice, conventions, depth of thought, and conventions. Students compose college level analytical papers using appropriate formatting and documentation. Students find the tools to express their ideas through vertically aligned vocabulary development stressing mastery of Greek and Latin roots. Students learn to view art and other visual representations as a compliment to the written word and determine an image’s connection with the themes of the text. Students develop speaking skills to express their ideas clearly and effectively. Students refine their listening skills to better participate in lecture, classroom discussion, and cooperative group activities. English/Language Arts III Grade: 11 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: English II In English/Language Arts III students further develop college level skills in the use and interpretation of language to better understand themselves and their world. Students read and analyze a wide variety of American literature, including novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poems, as well as literature from other cultures. Reading instruction centers not on mere comprehension, but building higher level thinking skills to evaluate the literary techniques of the author and interpret the themes of the work. Students learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read and apply these in analysis. Teachers model writing strategies that students apply in their work, centering on the development and mastery of focus and coherence, voice, conventions, depth of thought, and conventions. Students compose college level analytical papers using appropriate formatting and documentation. Students find the tools to express their ideas through vertically aligned vocabulary development stressing mastery of Greek and Latin roots. Students learn to view art and other visual representations as a compliment to the written word and determine an image’s connection with the themes of the text. Students develop speaking skills to express their ideas clearly and effectively. Students refine their listening skills to better participate in lecture, classroom discussion, and cooperative group activities. English/Language Arts IV Grade: 12 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: English III In English/Language Arts IV, students master college level skills in the use and interpretation of language to better understand themselves and their world. Students read and analyze a wide variety of British literature, including novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poems, as well as literature from other cultures. Reading instruction centers not on mere comprehension, but building higher level thinking skills to evaluate the literary techniques of the author and interpret the themes of the work. Students learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read and apply these in analysis. Teachers model writing strategies that students apply in their work, centering on the development and mastery of focus and coherence, voice, conventions, depth of thought, and conventions. Students find the tools to express their ideas through vertically aligned vocabulary development stressing mastery of Greek and Latin roots. Students learn to view art and other visual representations as a compliment to the written word and determine an image’s connection with the themes of the text. Students develop speaking skills to express their ideas clearly and effectively. Students refine their listening skills to better participate in lecture, classroom discussion, and cooperative group activities. English I and II (Honors) Grades: 9-10 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Administration and Teacher Approval In 9th and 10th grade, students may take Honors English Language Arts. Honors English prepares students for high school AP courses in language and literature by further emphasizing students’ skills in using and analyzing language. In addition to the goals of on-level language arts courses, students read from more advanced texts and seek to offer more in-depth interpretations. Students compose more advanced analytical papers using a college level rubric with appropriate formatting and documentation. AP English Language and Composition Grade: 11 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Administration and Teacher Approval In 11th grade, students may take AP English Language and Composition. Teachers create a course audit approved by College Board for accreditation. College Board states that, “The AP English Language and Composition course is designed to help students become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of rhetorical contexts and to become skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. “The goals of an AP English Language and Composition course are diverse because the college composition course is one of the most varied in the curriculum. The college course provides students with opportunities to write about a variety of subjects and to demonstrate an awareness of audience and purpose. But the overarching objective in most first-year writing courses is to enable students to write effectively and confidently in their college courses across the curriculum and in their professional and personal lives. Therefore, most composition courses emphasize the expository, analytical, and argumentative writing that forms the basis of academic and professional communication, as well as the personal and reflective writing that fosters the ability to write in any context. In addition, most composition courses teach students that the expository, analytical, and argumentative writing they must do in college is based on reading texts from various disciplines and periods as well as personal experience and observation. Composition courses, therefore, teach students to read primary and secondary sources carefully, to synthesize materials from these texts in their own compositions, and to cite sources using conventions recommended by professional organizations such as the Modern Language Association (MLA), the University of Chicago Press (The Chicago Manual of Style), and the American Psychological Association (APA). AP English Literature and Composition Grade: 12 Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Administration and Teacher Approval In 12th grade, students may take AP English Literature and Composition. Teachers create a course audit approved by College Board for accreditation. College Board states that, “The AP English Literature and Composition course is designed to engage students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students can deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students should consider a work's structure, style, and themes, as well as such smallerscale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Reading “Reading in an AP course should be both wide and deep. This reading necessarily builds upon the reading done in previous English courses. These courses should include the in-depth reading of texts drawn from multiple genres, periods, and cultures. In their AP course, students should also read works from several genres and periods -- from the sixteenth to the twenty-first century -- but, more importantly, they should get to know a few works well. They should read deliberately and thoroughly, taking time to understand a work's complexity, to absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is embodied in literary form. In addition to considering a work's literary artistry, students should consider the social and historical values it reflects and embodies. Careful attention to both textual detail and historical context should provide a foundation for interpretation, whatever critical perspectives are brought to bear on the literary works studied. Writing “Such close reading involves the experience of literature, the interpretation of literature, and the evaluation of literature. All these aspects of reading are important for an AP course in English Literature and Composition, and each corresponds to an approach to writing about literary works. Writing to understand a literary work may involve writing response and reaction papers along with annotation, freewriting, and keeping some form of a reading journal. Writing to explain a literary work involves analysis and interpretation, and may include writing brief focused analyses on aspects of language and structure. Writing to evaluate a literary work involves making and explaining judgments about its artistry and exploring its underlying social and cultural values through analysis, interpretation, and argument. MATHEMATICS The courses align with the New Mexico Content Standards, Benchmarks and Performance Standards for Mathematics. Math Sequencing position A Math 8 This course continues the study of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Math 8 Course helps students make the transition from arithmetic to algebra. Students are introduced to integers, solving equations, and the basics of algebra early in the course. Other topics include graphing and probability and statistics. Problem solving, applications, and communication are integrated throughout the course. Students in grade eight mathematics will continue to extend and build upon their foundation of basic understandings of numbers, operation, and quantitative reasoning; patterns, relationships, and algebraic thinking; geometry and spatial reasoning; measurement, probability and statistics, and problem-solving. The areas of emphasis are using algebraic principles to analyze proportional relationships and using probability to describe data and make predictions. Students will continue to experience opportunities to use models, manipulatives, and data collection and interpretation using appropriate technology. Problem- solving, communication, connections of concepts both within and outside mathematics, and informal and formal reasoning will be emphasized. This course is designed to successfully prepare students for Algebra in 9th grade. Algebra I Middle School Honors: Grade: 8 Credit: 1 Prerequisites: Administration and Teacher Approval In this two-semester course, students use algebraic methods to explore, model and describe patterns, relationships and functions. There is a strong emphasis on writing, graphing, and solving linear equations. Students will use data collection and analysis; statistics and probability to make inferences, decisions, and arguments as they solve a variety of practical problems. The depth and breadth of the course will develop a strong foundation for the more theoretical and rigorous experience students will encounter at the Advanced Placement level. Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students who will take other advanced college-preparatory courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course. Topics include: (1) operations with real numbers, (2) linear equations and inequalities, (3) relations and functions, (4) graphing linear equations and inequalities, (5) pairs of linear equations and inequalities, (6) polynomials, (7) algebraic functions, (8) quadratic, cubic, and radical equations, and (9) mathematical reasoning and problem solving. Math Sequencing position B Algebra I: Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Math 8 Algebra I must be completed before taking Biology In this two-semester course, students use algebraic methods to explore, model and describe patterns, relationships and functions. There is a strong emphasis on writing, graphing, and solving linear equations. Students will use data collection and analysis; statistics and probability to make inferences, decisions, and arguments as they solve a variety of practical problems. The depth and breadth of the course will develop a strong foundation for the more theoretical and rigorous experience students will encounter at the Advanced Placement level. Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students who will take other advanced college-preparatory courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course. Topics include: (1) operations with real numbers, (2) linear equations and inequalities, (3) relations and functions, (4) graphing linear equations and inequalities, (5) pairs of linear equations and inequalities, (6) polynomials, (7) algebraic functions, (8) quadratic, cubic, and radical equations, and (9) mathematical reasoning and problem solving. Math sequencing position C Geometry: Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra I Geometry must be completed before taking Chemistry In this course, students use geometric methods, properties and relationships as a means to recognize, draw, describe, connect, and analyze shapes and representations in the physical world. Students will also apply algebraic models and probabilities to physical applications. Students develop powers of spatial visualization while building their understanding of geometric figures. Students develop an understanding of the deductive reasoning method. Through applications and measurements, students use and strengthen their algebra skills. Geometry offers students many opportunities to explore geometric situations, develop conjectures and prove conjectures using a variety of methods. Geometry students examine the properties of two-and three-dimensional objects. Proof and logic, as well as investigative strategies in drawing conclusions, are stressed. Properties and relationships of geometric objects include the study of: (1) points, lines, angles, and planes, (2) polygons, with a special focus on quadrilaterals, triangles, right triangles; (3) circles; and (4) polyhedral and other solids. Geometry (Honors): Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra I (Honors) In this course, students use geometric methods, properties and relationships as a means to recognize, draw, describe, connect, and analyze shapes and representations in the physical world. Students will also apply algebraic models and probabilities to physical applications. Students develop powers of spatial visualization while building their understanding of geometric figures. Students develop an understanding of the deductive reasoning method. Through applications and measurements, students use and strengthen their algebra skills. Geometry offers students many opportunities to explore geometric situations, develop conjectures and prove conjectures using a variety of methods. Geometry students examine the properties of two-and three-dimensional objects. Proof and logic, as well as investigative strategies in drawing conclusions, are stressed. Properties and relationships of geometric objects include the study of: (1) points, lines, angles, and planes, (2) polygons, with a special focus on quadrilaterals, triangles, right triangles; (3) circles; and (4) polyhedral and other solids. Math sequencing position D Algebra II: Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Mathematical Models with Applications Algebra II must be completed before taking Physics Students in this course use algebraic methods to explore, model and describe patterns, relationships and functions involving numbers, shapes, data and graphs within a variety of real-world problem solving situations. They represent problem situations using discrete structures such as finite graphs, matrices, sequences and recurrence relations. This course reviews and builds on those concepts learned in Algebra I and Geometry. It places more emphasis on applying the basic concepts of Algebra to rational numbers and irrational numbers. The course expands techniques in analytical geometry and trigonometry learned in Geometry as a preview of the next two courses offered. Algebra II is a course which extends the content of Algebra I and provides further development of the concept of a function. Topics include: (1) relations, functions, equations, and inequalities; (2) conic sections; (3) polynomials; (4) algebraic functions; (5) logarithmic and exponential functions; (6) sequences and series; and (7) counting principles and probability. Graphing calculator technology is frequently used in this course. Algebra II (Honors): Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra I (Honors) Students in this course use algebraic methods to explore, model and describe patterns, relationships and functions involving numbers, shapes, data and graphs within a variety of real-world problem solving situations. They represent problem situations using discrete structures such as finite graphs, matrices, sequences and recurrence relations. This course reviews and builds on those concepts learned in Algebra I and Geometry. It places more emphasis on applying the basic concepts of Algebra to rational numbers and irrational numbers. The course expands techniques in analytical geometry and trigonometry learned in Geometry as a preview of the next two courses offered. Algebra II is a course which extends the content of Algebra I and provides further development of the concept of a function. Topics include: (1) relations, functions, equations, and inequalities; (2) conic sections; (3) polynomials; (4) algebraic functions; (5) logarithmic and exponential functions; (6) sequences and series; and (7) counting principles and probability. Graphing calculator technology is frequently used in this course. Math sequencing position E Pre-Calculus Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra II In Pre Calculus, students use symbolic reasoning and analytical methods to represent mathematical situations, to express generalizations, and to study mathematical concepts and the relationships among them. Students use functions, equations, and limits as useful tools for expressing generalizations and as means for analyzing and understanding a broad variety of mathematical relationships. Students also use functions as well as symbolic reasoning to represent and connect ideas in geometry, probability, statistics, trigonometry, and calculus and to model physical situations. Students use a variety of representations (concrete, pictorial, numerical, symbolic, graphical, and verbal), tools, and technology (including, but not limited to, calculators with graphing capabilities, data collection devices, and computers) to model functions and equations and solve real-life problems. As they do mathematics, students continually use problem solving, language and communication, and reasoning (justification and proof) to make connections within and outside mathematics. Students also use multiple representations, technology, applications and modeling, and numerical fluency in problem-solving contexts. AP Statistics Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra I, Teacher Recommendation Students are introduced to major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. This course prepares students for the College Board AP Statistics Examination for possible college (one-semester, non-calculus based statistics) credit. Students collect, organize, analyze, interpret, and report data using statistical formulas and processes. Students distinguish between random sampling and biased sampling. Students use statistical measures to analyze real-world phenomena. Upon completion of this course students are well prepared and expected to take the Advanced Placement Statistics test which can result in one semester of college credit. Successful Completion of the AP Exam for any AP course will allow for acquisition of college credit upon approval of the college.. For Advanced Placement courses, please access more information on the internet at the web address http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/course/descriptions. AP Calculus AB Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra II, Teacher Recommendation Students explore functions, graphs, limits, derivatives, and integrals. This course prepares students for the College Board AP Calculus AB Examination for possible college credit (1st semester calculus). For Advanced Placement courses, please access more information on the internet at the web address http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/course/descriptions. AP Calculus BC Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Algebra II, Teacher Recommendation Students explore all topics covered in AP Calculus AB plus additional topics including parametric, polar, and vector functions and polynomial approximations and series. This course prepares students for the College Board AP Calculus BC Examination for possible college credit (a full year of calculus). This exam also has a Calculus AB sub-score grade for students to receive 1st semester college calculus credit. For Advance Placement courses, please access more information on the internet at the web address http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/course/descriptions SCIENCE The courses align with the New Mexico Content Standards, Benchmarks and Performance Standards for Science. Biology Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Algebra I Biology is designed to acquaint students with basic concepts in science process skills, laboratory skills, and the study of cells, DNA, genetics, the living kingdoms on our earth and how they interact. A study of the fundamental concepts, including the origin and development of life, the similarity of living organisms, the classification, characteristics, structure, reproduction and function of plants and animals, as well as the interrelationships of plants, animals and the physical environment. Biology (Honors) Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Enrollment in Honor class and teacher recommendation Honors Biology is designed to acquaint students with basic concepts in science process skills, laboratory skills, and the living kingdoms on our earth and how they interact. A study of the fundamental concepts, including the origin and development of life, the similarity of living organisms, the classification, characteristics, structure, reproduction and function of plants and animals, as well as the interrelationships of plants, animals and the physical environment. The first semester’s study includes the study of cells, DNA, genetics. The class can be considered college preparatory, suggested for the average to above average student. AP Biology Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Teacher approval This course covers the first year college curriculum and prepares students to take the AP Biology exam. Emphasis is on developing the conceptual framework, knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to understand, and participate in, the modern field of biology. The curriculum includes the study of molecular, cellular, ecological, and evolutionary biology, presented in a variety of formats, including class discussions, readings, lab work, and lecture. Students interested in this course should be successful independent learners with a strong interest in the field of biology. Chemistry Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Geometry Chemistry provides a broad survey of basic chemistry. The first semester examines chemical and physical properties, the qualitative nature of chemical reactions, chemical periodicity, and bonding. The second semester continues with the quantitative nature of chemical reactions, states of matter, gaseous behavior, solutions, equilibrium, and acid-base chemistry. Throughout the year, the course makes use of laboratory investigations to develop the relationships between experiment and theory. Chemistry (Honors) Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Biology and Teacher approval Honors Chemistry covers many of the same topics as Chemistry in greater depth. Special emphasis is placed on a rigorous mathematical examination of chemical principles. The first semester focuses on basic concepts of chemistry including the qualitative nature of chemical reactions, atomic structure, chemical bonding and molecular geometry. The second semester opens with stoichiometry and the quantitative nature of chemical equations. These concepts are then applied tovarious topics such as the kinetic theory of gases, condensed phases of matter, reaction kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry and oxidation-reduction chemistry. Interested students must meet with the teacher and get teacher’s approval. AP Chemistry Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher approval The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. Students in this course should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The curriculum prepares students to take the AP chemistry exam for AP credit. Five general areas are intensively studied: the Structure of Matter, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Reactions. Advanced laboratory work is done in each topic area. Students are expected to take the AP Examination given by the Educational Testing Service in May. Physics Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher approval Physics, as the most basic of all sciences, introduces the nature of basic things around us such as matter, energy, heat, motion, forces, light and sound. This course has been designed to teach the laws of nature in their simplicity, and problem solving skills corresponding to both in ideal and real world situations. The course of physics is integrated with very basic mathematical rules includes mechanics, heat and thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. A set of experiments will allow students to implement the theory into the real world and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. Physics (Honors) Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher approval This advanced level physics course will allow students to learn the same physical concepts with more depth and mathematical basis. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the college level physics courses. AP Physics Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher approval This course is designed to introduce a college level, calculus based physics course with a set of advanced laboratory experiments. The students of AP Physics course will be well prepared to the College Board’s advance placement physics exam. Also, students will have the opportunity to receive college credits if they can pass the advance placement exam with a satisfactory grade. AP Physics is especially recommended to the students who would like to choose a profession in the fields of science, engineering, and medicine. Environmental Science Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Environmental Science is designed to provide students the environmental aspects, explore Earth’s natural systems, and impacts of human activity on the environment. The topics covered in this course are introduction to ecology, the atmosphere of the Earth, food on Earth, water, and energy. The theory is supported with lab and field investigations, and discussions in cooperative learning groups on environmental issues enable students to improve their critical thinking, and problem solving skills. Students are expected to become more sensitive on environmental issues. Environmental Science (Honors) Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Pre-AP Environmental Science is designed to provide students the environmental aspects, explore Earth’s natural systems, and impacts of human activity on the environment in more details. The topics covered in this course are introduction to ecology, the atmosphere of the Earth, food on Earth, water, and energy. The theory is supported with lab and field investigations, and discussions in cooperative learning groups on environmental issues enable students to improve their critical thinking, and problem solving skills. Students are expected to become more sensitive on environmental issues SOCIAL STUDIES The courses align with the New Mexico Content Standards, Benchmarks and Performance Standards for Social Studies. Social Studies 8 (United States History from the Early Colonial Period through Reconstruction) In Grade 8, students study the history of the United States from the early colonial period through Reconstruction. The knowledge and skills in subsection (b) of this section comprise the first part of a two-year study of U.S. history. The second part, comprising U.S. history since Reconstruction to the present, is provided in §113.32 of this title (relating to United States History Studies Since Reconstruction (One Credit)). The content builds upon that from Grade 5 but provides more depth and breadth. Historical content focuses on the political, economic, and social events and issues related to the colonial and revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. Constitution, challenges of the early Republic, westward expansion, sectionalism, Civil War, and Reconstruction. Students describe the physical characteristics of the United States and their impact on population distribution and settlement patterns in the past and present. Students analyze the various economic factors that influenced the development of colonial America and the early years of the Republic and identify the origins of the free enterprise system. Students examine the American beliefs and principles, including limited government, checks and balances, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights, reflected in the U.S. Constitution and other historical documents. Students evaluate the impact of Supreme Court cases and major reform movements of the 19th century and examine the rights and responsibilities of citizens of the United States as well as the importance of effective leadership in a democratic society. Students evaluate the impact of scientific discoveries and technological innovations on the development of the United States. Students use critical-thinking skills, including the identification of bias in written, oral, and visual material. World Geography Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Social Studies 8 In World Geography Studies, students examine people, places, and environments at local, regional, national, and international scales from the spatial and ecological perspectives of geography. Students describe the influence of geography on events of the past and present. A significant portion of the course centers around the physical processes that shape patterns in the physical environment; the characteristics of major land forms, climates, and ecosystems and their interrelationships; the political, economic, and social processes that shape cultural patterns of regions; types and patterns of settlement; the distribution and movement of world population; relationships among people, places, and environments; and the concept of region. Students analyze how location affects economic activities in different economic systems throughout the world. Students identify the processes that influence political divisions of the planet and analyze how different points of view affect the development of public policies. Students compare how components of culture shape the characteristics of regions and analyze the impact of technology and human modifications on the physical environment. Students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions. New Mexico History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) This survey course supports students to become more knowledgeable and aware of the historical cultural, economic, and political history of New Mexico and their geographical connections. Students will analyze the role that New Mexico plays in national and international arenas. World History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: World Geography World History Studies is the only course offering students an overview of the entire history of humankind. The major emphasis is on the study of significant people, events, and issues from the earliest times to the present. Traditional historical points of reference in world history are identified as students analyze important events and issues in western civilization as well as in civilizations in other parts of the world. Students evaluate the causes and effects of political and economic imperialism and of major political revolutions since the 17th century. Students examine the impact of geographic factors on major historic events and identify the historic origins of contemporary economic systems. Students analyze the process by which democratic-republican governments evolved as well as the ideas from historic documents that influenced that process. Students trace the historical development of important legal and political concepts. Students examine the history and impact of major religious and philosophical traditions. Students analyze the connections between major developments in science and technology and the growth of industrial economies, and they use the process of historical inquiry to research, interpret, and use multiple sources of evidence. of reference in world history are identified as students analyze important events and issues in western civilization as well as in civilizations in other parts of the world. Students evaluate the causes and effects of political and economic imperialism and of major political revolutions since the 17th century. Students examine the impact of geographic factors on major historic events and identify the historic origins of contemporary economic systems. Students analyze the process by which democratic-republican governments evolved as well as the ideas from historic documents that influenced that process. Students trace the historical development of important legal and political concepts. Students examine the history and impact of major religious and philosophical traditions. Students analyze the connections between major developments in science and technology and the growth of industrial economies, and they use the process of historical inquiry to research, interpret, and use multiple sources of evidence. Advanced Placement (AP) World History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Teacher and Administration Approval The AP World History course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in world history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses. Students learn to access historical materials and scholarship and evaluate their reliability and importance. This course develops the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format United States History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: World History In this course, students study the history of the United States since Reconstruction to the present. Historical content focuses on the political, economic, and social events and issues related to industrialization and urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies of the Cold War and postCold War eras, and reform movements including civil rights. Students examine the impact of geographic factors on major events and analyze causes and effects of the Great Depression. Students examine the impact of constitutional issues on American society, evaluate the dynamic relationship of the three branches of the federal government, and analyze efforts to expand the democratic process. Students describe the relationship between the arts and the times during which they were created. Students analyze the impact of technological innovations on the American labor movement Students describe the relationship between the arts and the times during which they were methods that historians use to interpret the past, including points of view and historical context. Advanced Placement (AP) United States History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Teacher and Administration Approval The AP U.S. History course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses. Students learn to access historical materials and scholarship and evaluate their reliability and importance. This course develops the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. Advanced Placement (AP) European History Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Teacher and Administration Approval The AP European History course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses. Students learn to access historical materials and scholarship and evaluate their reliability and importance. This course develops the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. United States Government Credit: .5 (1 semesters) Prerequisites: United States History since Reconstruction In Government, the focus is on the principles and beliefs upon which the United States was founded and on the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels. This course is the culmination of the civic and governmental content and concepts studied from Kindergarten through required secondary courses. Students learn major political ideas and forms of government in history. A significant focus of the course is on the U.S. Constitution, its underlying principles and ideas, and the form of government it created. Students analyze major concepts of republicanism, federalism, checks and balances, separation of powers, popular sovereignty, and individual rights and compare the U.S. system of government with other political systems. Students identify the role of government in the U.S. free enterprise system and examine the strategic importance of places to the United States. Students analyze the impact of individuals, political parties, interest groups, and the media on the American political system, evaluate the importance of voluntary individual participation in a democratic society, and analyze the rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Students examine the relationship between governmental policies and the culture of the United States. Students identify examples of government policies that encourage scientific research and use critical-thinking skills to create a product on a contemporary government issue. Psychology Credit: .5 (1 semester) Prerequisites: Teacher and Administration Approval In Psychology, an elective course, students consider the development of the individual and the personality. The study of psychology is based on an historical framework and relies on effective collection and analysis of data. Students study topics such as theories of human development, personality, motivation, and learning. Sociology Credit: .5 (1 semester) Prerequisites: Teacher and Administration Approval In Sociology, an elective course, students study dynamics and models of individual and group relationships. Students study topics such as the history and systems of sociology, cultural and social norms, social institutions, and mass communication. TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS In Computer Science, students gain knowledge and skills in the application, design, production, and assessment of products, services, and systems. Knowledge and skills in the proper application of technology, the design of technology, the efficient production of technology, and the assessment of the effects of technology prepare students for success in the modern world. The study of technology allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer their academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant activities, problems, and settings. In addition to their general academic and technical knowledge and skills, students gain an understanding of career opportunities available in technology and what employers require to gain and maintain employment in these careers. Computer Assisted Art Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Computer Assisted Art is an introductory course in design, typography, and imaging techniques. The course includes topics such as digital composition, color, imaging, editing, and animation. An integral component in other areas, understanding design elements is essential in the creation of a successful product in this course. The student will use the computer’s set of tools, common to bitmapped and and object oriented software programs to produce and edit digital designs as well as to incorporate design principles when capturing digital images with the scanner and camera. Students will work with color, resolution, and halftones as well as other image enhancing strategies including outlining, cropping, digital manipulation, color correction, masking, and the use of channels, paths, background, and layers. Animation, both 2-D and 3-D, will be introduced in this course. Students enrolled in this course will be computer literate and have experience with the basic electronic productivity and telecom tools. Web Mastering Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) The World Wide Web (WWW) is the fastest growing part of the Internet. The popularity of the WWW is due largely to the ease with which users can not only access and navigate the web but also create pages of information to share with others Students will learn how to design, create, and maintain web pages. Projects will incorporate tools such as HTML, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Flash, Fireworks, digital cameras, and scanners. Mass Media-Production Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Video production is probably the most universally known of all visual media and is an integral component of many technology applications. The process of editing creates a special mood, tempo, and pace to enhance the subject matter. Video production is not only instructional and analytical, but also artistic. Students will learn video basics as well as participate in pre-production, production, and post production stages of video creation, distribution, and evaluation of the product. Students enrolled in this course will be computer literate and have experience with the basic electronic productivity tools. Computer Science/Programming Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Computer Science involves the understanding of programming language concepts and how these are applied to problem solving. The enormous growth of programming languages requires a changing curriculum and flexibility in the pace of instruction. Computer Science I is a course covering problem solving, computer architecture, and programming concepts. This knowledge helps students understand how software is written which increases the student's ability to learn application software through understanding of the basic concepts. Students can study Computer Science to comprehend the social, economic and cultural environment of the information age. Programming equips students with skills which involve much more than the syntax of a programming language. Computer programs are a form of communication. When developing program solutions, students consider clarity of expressing (readability), program maintenance, ease of debugging, program extension, reliability, utility, and validity. Concept mastery of a high level language, while creating solutions which are well structured and modular in nature, is the primary emphasis rather than syntax. Film/Videotape Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Prerequisite: Teacher approval Multimedia is a laboratory-based course designed to provide an overview of and experience in multimedia technology. Sounds, images, graphics, and video are the informational projects from which students will construct media rich knowledge structures. Students will develop necessary skills and obtain hands-on experiences working with a variety of multimedia tools to build linear and non-linear interactive products. Students enrolled in this course will be computer literate and have experience with basic electronic productivity tools. Business Computer Applications Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and to make a successful transition to the workforce and/or post-secondary education. Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies. Computer and Information Sciences Credit: 1.00 (2 semesters) An occupationally specific course (pre-employment laboratory or cooperative education) designed to provide advanced training in concepts and skills related to computer applications. Special emphasis is placed on computer operations, word processing, database management, spreadsheet manipulation, telecommunications, desktop publishing, and other high-level business application software. Spanish I Credit 1.0 (2 semesters) This class serves as an introduction to the basics of the Spanish language. The basics of speaking, reading, listening, writing and comprehension are taught, as are aspects of the culture in countries where Spanish is spoken. An emphasis is placed on speaking and comprehension of Spanish. Class participation is required, as is daily study and practice time (outside of the classroom) to ensure the student’s success in the course. Spanish II - 1.0 credit (2 terms) Credit 1.0 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Spanish I This class serves to further develop the student’s ability to use the Spanish language. Speaking, reading, listening, writing and comprehension of Spanish are taught, as is the culture of the countries where the language is spoken. An emphasis is placed on speaking and comprehension of Spanish. Class participation is required as is daily study and practice time (outside of the classroom) to ensure the student’s success in the course. Spanish III Credit 1.0 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Spanish II This class serves to further develop the student’s ability to use the Spanish language. More emphasis is placed on the culture of Spanish—speaking countries than in previous levels, as well as a higher emphasis on the utilization of Spanish in conversation, presentations, etc. Texts, films and other cultural resources are studied in the target language. Class participation is required as is daily study and practice time (outside of the classroom) to ensure the student’s success in the course. Spanish IV Credit 1.0 (2 semesters) Prerequisites: Spanish IIII This class seeks to develop the student’s ability to utilize Spanish to the point of mastery. A higher emphasis is placed on the reading of texts, watching of films and studying the history and culture from the countries where Spanish is spoken. Class participation is required as is daily study and practice time (outside of the classroom) to ensure the student’s success in the course. Sports Science sample of possible courses Foundations of Exercise and Sport Science An introductory course aimed at the entry level student. Focuses on the integration of biological, behavioral, and cultural perspectives in Exercise and Sport Science. Motor Development Study of physical growth, body type, and motor development through childhood, adolescence, and the adult stages; age and sex differences in motor performance. Kinesiology The purpose of this course is to analyze human movement using applied anatomy and biomechanics, with the goal of skill enhancement and injury prevention. Exercise Physiology This course will study how exercise affects the structure and function of the human body. Attention will be given to each bodily system as well as the biochemistry of exercise. Exercise Psychology Study of the reciprocal relationship of body movement and inner states. Topics include motivation, stress, group and leadership dynamics, psychological skills, body image, burnout, and injury. Exercise and Disease Prevention This course examines the mechanisms of chronic disease, including the etiology, epidemiology, and role of exercise in the management and prevention of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Exercise and Health Promotion The purpose of this course is to provide students with the tools to develop effective exercise and health promotion interventions for a variety of populations. Neuroscience The general purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to the field of neuroscience. Emphasis is placed on the biological structures and functions of the brain and nervous system in health and disease Biomechanics The knowledge and methods of mechanics as applied to the structure and function of the living human system. Exercise Program Design This course will train students to develop exercise programs for health people and those with controlled diseases. Benefits and risks of physical activity will be discussed in addition to various methods of human performance and assessment and movement analysis. Exercise and Healthy Kids Exercise and Healthy Kids will discuss major issues unique to health for children and youth. This course emphasizes the influencing factors of childhood obesity as well as examining sport participation, physically activity and nutrition from a global perspective Sport, Culture and Society Course focuses on local and global forces in the production and promotion of sport and fitness practices, representations, and discourses. Nutrition for Exercise and Health This course will study the influence of nutrition on both health and human performance. Students will study how diet affects the prevention of various disease processes as well as nutritional strategies that can be employed to enhance athletic performance.